Swansea cheating v Leeds United missed after early controversy

Keith Hackett has called out Ronald for simulation in the lead-up to Swansea's opener against Leeds United on Sunday.

Harry Darling put the Swans in front just eight minutes into the game on 24 November from a free-kick situation after Ao Tanaka was adjudged to have fouled Ronald.

Hackett, a former FIFA referee and PGMOL chief, believes there was not enough contact to warrant a foul on that occasion.

Speaking exclusively to MOT Leeds News, Hackett said: "No. No, I don't [think there was enough contact]. He [Ronald] is going before he's actually challenged.

"As referees, the game has got to clear its act up and get hold of those players who are cheating.

Swansea cheating v Leeds United missed

"These are acts of simulation. Referees appear to have lost focus of it.

"Players go down for tactical reasons, players exaggerate the fall. Instead of dribbling with the ball, they go to ground. It's not a foul for me."

The foul and the goal did not matter eventually as Leeds United returned from Wales with all three points after beating Swansea 4-3, with a stoppage-time goal from Willy Gnonto proving to be the winner.

Daniel Farke would have been upset, and rightfully so, had Darling's opener cost the Yorkshire-based club a point or three at the weekend.

This is not the first time the Elland Road outfit have been hard done by the referees in the Championship this season.

Hackett recently noted a controversial incident in their 2-0 win against QPR at home on 9 November before the international break.

The refereeing expert admitted that Rs defender Steve Cook should have been penalised after using his arm to block a ball coming off Mateo Joseph inside the box when the score was 1-0.

In other Leeds United news, this Whites star proved he is too good for the Championship after what he did at the weekend.

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